On IN THE NEWS: Some oil-producing nations face their first budget deficits in years as oil prices drop sharply. And Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin warns that the world can expect higher natural gas prices.

On ECONOMICS REPORT: At the start of the year, it was well-known that the housing market was in crisis. But few predicted that bad loans would bring down one of Wall Street’s biggest investment banks. First of two parts.

This course is for students preparing to do the TOEFL/IELTS/Cambridge or equivalent university/immigration English tests. The videos range from intermediate to advanced and focus on speaking writing. Review quizzes for target vocab. can be found at: http://mypeppy.com

2. Business (11 Videos)

In these videos you will find some precious tips on how to prepare for job interviews as well as vocabulary expansion and accent reduction.

3. Peppy (25 Videos)

This is a great course for those who already have a basic background in English. The videos range from low intermediate to advanced. Many of the videos have practise activities and mp3 files for free download at: http://mypeppy.com

Mr. Steve, who (probably) teaches business English in Paris, answers "business" questions from his students every week online. This week he teaches us two shortened expressions - FYI and ETA. These are from (possibly) a viewer named Yuki who emailed him to ask.

That's an interesting clip. I am a big fan of him now :D - good luck & good superstition; bad luck & bad superstition - examples of superstition: in UK, Brazil, Thailand, China and Japan - a bit about religion

Dec 24, 2008

Also on SCIENCE IN THE NEWS: Scientists find evidence of tsunamis from long ago. And a study suggests that being surrounded by happy friends and neighbors could have more of an effect on your happiness than money.

Dec 16, 2008

On SCIENCE IN THE NEWS: Any device that burns fuels such as coal, oil or wood can create the gas. And experts say the leading cause of injury and death is damaged equipment or a lack of knowledge about the correct use.

On ECONOMICS REPORT: The chiefs of the Big Three returned to Washington -- in hybrid vehicles this time, not private jets -- to renew their appeal for a rescue. Also, the Treasury considers a plan to help increase home sales.